External Affairs Minister Prof G L Peiris soon after entering
agreements in the fields of economic, education, scientific and
technical cooperation and MoU in the field of cultural cooperation with
Afghanistan Foreign Minister Dr Zalmai Rassoul in Colombo yesterday,
told the media that diplomatic relations between Sri Lanka and
Afghanistan would be further strengthened with the establishment of
resident diplomatic missions between the two countries.

The minister said it was the first time an Afghan Foreign Minister
visited Sri Lanka.

"This is a historical event and it will lead to even closer ties
between the two countries," he said.

"I am aware of the close rapport between President Mahinda Rajapaksa
and Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai. Both countries are on common
positions on most international issues, be it Human Rights, terrorism,
eradication of poverty and globalisation. Sri Lanka after ending the 30
year conflict has now accelerated economic and social development. Both
countries have become emerging nations. Therefore, these agreements will
help advance and strengthen close cooperation in political, trade,
economic, cultural, scientific and technological fields of the two
countries," Prof Peiris said.

Dr Rassoul said it was honour to visit Sri Lanka.

"I hope this opportunity would pave the way to further consolidate
bilateral ties between the two countries," he said.

"Afghanistan is a democratic country and fighting against terrorism.
We have a process of reconciliation in Afghanistan. The country's hope
is for a brighter and more prosperous future," he said.